International Migration and Socio economic Linkages in East Asia

This chapter delves into the intricate analysis of international migration and its associated socioeconomic linkages within the realm of East Asia, with a particular emphasis on Japan and South Korea. These two nations have the unique advantage of hosting a substantial number of migrants hailing from a variety of other Asian countries. Japan and South Korea exhibit similar patterns in their absorption of migrants in relation to work, marriage, and student migration, as well as in terms of their overseas diaspora. However, notable differences are evident in their respective compositions. This chapter aims to identify and elucidate these similarities and differences in the reception of migrants in Japan and South Korea. It further seeks to expound on their implications within the broader context of international migration and socioeconomic linkages among countries. Social linkages have been forged between countries that send and receive migrants, thereby serving as a conduit for migration. In both Japan and South Korea, approximately 80% of the foreign population originates from Asia. This indicates that while globalization and Asianization operate concurrently, the latter exerts a more potent influence. Globalization, as an economic and social exchange of people, can be viewed as an extension or complement to Asianization.